Enrichment Federal Credit Union is contributing $5,000 to the “Making the Critical Difference” campaign to provide grants to Oak Ridge public school teachers, an ORPSEF release stated.

Special to The Oak Ridger

Enrichment Federal Credit Union is contributing $5,000 to the “Making the Critical Difference” campaign to provide grants to Oak Ridge public school teachers, an ORPSEF release stated.

The Oak Ridge Public Schools Education Foundation is conducting the campaign to raise $500,000 for grant awards of $100,000 each for five years.

According to the release, the Foundation’s board believes these grants have a strong supporting role in sustaining the tradition of excellence in Oak Ridge schools — as well as rewarding teachers for innovative ideas.

“Enrichment Federal Credit Union is very supportive of sustaining the excellent educational opportunities within the Oak Ridge school system,” said Wayne Hope, president and chief executive officer of Enrichment Federal Credit Union.

“By assisting with the mission of the Foundation, our support allows the credit union to be a part of the bright future of our community”

The credit union has made a five-year pledge of $1,000 per year.

Since 2005, the Education Foundation's annual competitive grants program has awarded more than $322,000 in grants to more than 100 teachers, with some grants funding programs or equipment in multiple classrooms.

Those grants, however, have funded only about one-third of the proposals from Oak Ridge teachers.

“We appreciate the five-year commitment Enrichment Federal Credit Union has made to this campaign,” said Lila Metcalf, director of the Oak Ridge Public Schools Education Foundation.

“The Foundation's grants program will continue to provide support for teachers and students in Oak Ridge public schools, thanks to strong community support for education in Oak Ridge.”

The ORPSEF is seeking the community's help in ensuring that annual grant awards continue to support teachers and students and continue to make a critical difference to our schools.

Those interested in learning more about the “Making the Critical Difference” campaign or in making a donation may call (865) 241-3667 or contact Lila Metcalf at Lila.Metcalf@orau.org.

The Education Foundation, a non-profit organization founded in 2000, provides funds beyond public tax dollars for education, raising funds through grants and private donations to invest in enhanced educational programming, innovative technology, and state-of-the-art facilities for teachers and students.